Strategic Thinking Process
Strategic thinking process can be used in any organization seeking to gain a competitive edge. With a focus on improvement, often through creativity and innovation, strategic thinking builds a vision for an organization’s future prior to the linear process of developing a strategic plan. In the face of the competition and change that exists in today’s market, organizations and their leadership can take advantage of strategic thinking in order to move it forward toward a new and more successful future.
The Strategic Thinking Process
Strategic planning and operational planning to develop business strategies that have a greater chance for success. Organizations are increasingly learning that past experiences are not the only foundation for developing future strategies.
Creativity and Innovation in Strategic Thinking
At the core of strategic thinking is the need for creativity and innovation. Executives must continuously explore new ways to create value for customers, going beyond the conventional “hows” and “whens” of business planning. This approach involves a thorough research phase to understand the voice of the customer, employee perspectives, and industry best practices. By examining every aspect of the organization’s operations, strategic thinking ensures that all activities align with the organization’s strategic goals.
Employee Involvement in Strategic Thinking
Employee involvement at every level of the strategic thinking process paves the way to warranting that they remain engaged in the implementation of the operational plans. Operational Planning is the process of welcoming the strategies and thereon developing them into action plans that are achievable and involve staff across the organization in ensuring that the needs of the customer and the organization are actualized.
In the absence of a comprehensive Strategic Thinking process
the organization risks making quick decisions that lack the creativity and insights derived through a Strategic Thinking process itself. The aim is to think ahead – out-plan, out-think and out-maneuver other variables.
The Importance of a Clear Strategy
A clear, well-articulated strategy defines the corporate mission for those charged with carrying it out. Ironically, in most companies the strategy remains an idea in the mind of a few people. As management seeks to implement any strategy, the organization goes into a spiral from event to event, lacking clear mandate or direction. This results in the company losing momentum; with resources wasted.
Strategic Thinking vs. Strategic Planning
Strategic thinking is a living process that enables senior management to collaboratively develop and refine a strategy. It involves assessing both internal and external environments, debating critical issues, and reaching a consensus on the organization’s future direction.
